The reporter who broke the story in the Conservative weekly magazine still insists that his "excellent sources" told him the truth, and that Black Rod has written a secret memo which makes further allegations and is "dynamite".

Black Rod, Lt Gen Sir Michael Willcocks

Former UK military representative to Nato has made more of a stir after a year in his ceremonial job than most of his predecessors managed in entire careers in the £100,000 post best known for its ritual aspects.

Alastair Campbell, Downing Street director of communications

Often dubbed "the real deputy prime minister", the abrasive ex-journalist is known for his devotion to Blair. His continuing influence helps explain calls for his dismissal when he said the PCC case was resolved.

Clare Sumner, Downing Street private secretary

Career civil servant says her guidance document stated the prime minister and leader of the opposition would meet Queen Mother's coffin, but when Black Rod told her this was not the case she accepted her document was wrong.

Boris Johnson, Spectator editor and MP for Henley

Apparently shambolic but ultra-ambitious journalist-politician has stood by his political editor, dismissing No 10's claim that its complaint was resolved as "a ludicrous and humiliating climbdown".